Gary Neville, former Manchester United defender and Sky Sports pundit, and Michael Carrick, Manchester United manager, Manchester, September 21, 2026, were at the centre of intense scrutiny as Gary Neville slams Man United following a disappointing 1-1 Premier League draw against Fulham.
Manchester United’s performance drew sharp criticism after a troubling spell early in the second half saw Lisandro Martínez score an own goal, handing Fulham the advantage in a match that exposed lingering inconsistencies.
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Gary Neville, who spent his entire playing career at Manchester United, delivered a powerful and emotional assessment of the team’s display.
“I’ve watched Manchester United since the age of five and that’s the worst 15 minutes I’ve ever seen,” Gary Neville said. “Absolutely pathetic. I’ve never seen such a lack of effort. What must Michael Carrick be thinking?”
The criticism came despite a late response from Manchester United, with Matheus Cunha scoring a deflected equaliser in the 89th minute to salvage a point at Old Trafford.
Matheus Cunha also acknowledged the team’s shortcomings after the match, admitting Fulham had shown greater urgency.
“At the beginning of the second half they put in more energy than us. We cannot accept this,” Matheus Cunha said.
Michael Carrick, however, offered a more measured view, rejecting concerns over fitness and instead highlighting the team’s resilience in the closing stages.
“The way we finished the game, actually, it didn’t look like that. We finished the game really strong and kept pushing. I don’t think that’s an issue,” Michael Carrick said.
The result extends a difficult run for Manchester United, following a defeat in the Manchester derby and a frustrating collapse from a two-goal lead against Brighton in previous fixtures.
With just five points from their opening five matches, Manchester United sit 12th in the Premier League table, increasing pressure on Michael Carrick as questions persist over consistency and tactical cohesion.
Despite the growing criticism, Michael Carrick urged patience from both players and supporters, pointing to the long nature of the season.
“It’s still a big season ahead. It’s a long season and you’re going to have spells through a season. That’s part of the journey,” Michael Carrick said.
Michael Carrick also praised the supporters for their unwavering backing during a challenging period.
“The supporters were unbelievable today, all the way through, and stuck with the boys and supported them,” Michael Carrick added.
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While the late equaliser offered a brief moment of relief, the performance itself leaves deeper concerns about Manchester United’s direction, with Gary Neville’s critique reflecting a wider frustration among observers.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
